Tennessee Senate Bill SB1656

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 33, Chapter 2; Title 38; Title 39; Title 50; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to Kratom.

Impact

By implementing these changes, SB1656 seeks to align state regulations more closely with other controlled substances, effectively banning Kratom within Tennessee. The bill also mandates toxicology testing for Kratom in specific cases, such as suspected drug overdoses or neonatal abstinence syndrome, thus enhancing the tracking and response to Kratom-related health concerns. Additionally, the introduction of Kratom into the definition of a drug under labor laws signifies its reevaluation in the context of workplace regulations.

Summary

Senate Bill 1656 proposes significant amendments to the Tennessee Code Annotated, targeting the regulation of Kratom, a substance derived from the mitragyna speciosa plant. The bill introduces criminal penalties for the possession, manufacture, delivery, and sale of Kratom. Possessing Kratom is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, while manufacture or distribution carries stiffer penalties of Class C felonies, escalating to Class B felonies in cases involving sales to minors. This legislative measure aims to combat potential misuse and ensure public safety regarding this substance, which has sparked considerable debate.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1656 include its potential implications on individuals who currently use Kratom for pain management or other therapeutic purposes. Proponents of the bill argue that stringent regulation is necessary to protect public health and address the dangers associated with Kratom. Conversely, advocates for users express concerns about criminalizing a substance that many consider to be a natural remedy. The bill’s supporters and critics alike are closely monitoring its effects on personal freedoms and the healthcare landscape in Tennessee once enacted.